If you struggle with depression, you’re probably familiar with just how difficult even simple tasks can become. Persistent feelings of sadness and lost interest in activities you once enjoyed are both common symptoms of this disorder. It’s easy to become discouraged. But I can guide you through body-centered experiences and teach you practical tools that can lift the veil of depression that build a foundation for positive growth and change. You can take your life back. I’ve taught many people how to live a more peaceful life that’s lasting.
Use these seven ways to begin to successfully battle depression:
1. Be active
If daily tasks like brushing your teeth have become draining, doing something that requires physical activity might seem daunting. However, being active is scientifically proven to better your mood, as activity boosts your endorphins. Many people mistake being physically active for spending a designated amount of time at the gym; but if you don’t enjoy that, don’t do it! Finding a physical activity that you actually like is an excellent way to battle depression. Take a group exercise class like yoga or Pilates. Try going for a walk, hike, or bike ride. Spending time outdoors and in nature will also increase your Vitamin D levels, which is beneficial for your mental health.
2. Participate in activities you once loved
Depression can leave you feeling like you’re in a never-ending rut, especially because it steals some of your favorite activities. Try to push through the rut and force yourself to do things you once loved. Make a list of your favorite activities and incorporate them into your daily life. Read a chapter from your favorite book or get takeout from your favorite restaurant. Little things like this will give you something to look forward to.
3. Create a routine
Depression can often leave you feeling out of control. Establishing a routine can help you regain control. Depression can also blur your days into weeks, weeks into months, and months into years. This is why having a defined routine is so important for combating depression. Make a daily to-do list and stick to a fairly regulated schedule. Wake up around the same time each day and set certain times to do different activities.
4. Don’t isolate yourself
As you probably know, isolation is pretty tempting when you struggle with depression. If you were once a very social person, this can be especially difficult because you’ll feel like you aren’t yourself anymore. It’s important to realize that depression is dark enough on your own, so spending time with others is a good way to let some light in. Even if you can’t get yourself to leave the house, having a friend over just to watch TV or cook a meal can break your isolation pattern. Often times, people who battle depression feel alone or embarrassed because of their struggle. Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders and it impacts a multitude of people. When you open up and tell a friend or family member, they can help you find the right resources as well as be more understanding about your situation.
5. Challenge your negative thoughts
Depression commonly stems from anger. Once you’re aware of the fact that you are depressed, try to understand what got you there. Is there something or someone you’re angry at? Are you in the middle of a major life change? When you figure out where your depression is stemming from and what it’s telling you, you can begin to counter the thoughts. Is there factual backup for the negative thoughts that are running through your head? Or is your depression telling you lies?
6. Balanced eating
Eating well is important for your physical, mental and emotional health; specifically because your food intake is directly related to weight fluctuation, which is a symptom of depression. Remind yourself that food is fuel, not a coping mechanism. Listening to your cues, eating when you’re hungry and stopping when you’re full is crucial when you battle depression.
7. Normalize sleep as much as possible
Have you noticed a recent disruption in your sleeping patterns? Maybe you’re not sleeping enough or maybe you’re sleeping the day away. Insomnia and oversleeping are very common for those who struggle with depression. If you give into unhealthy sleeping patterns, it can become cyclical. Try to go to sleep and wake up around the same time each day.
While the above list is a great start in combating depression, seeing a therapist is the best solution for ANY mental health disorder. Call me today and Schedule an appointment if you want help overcoming depression and taking your life back!
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